Tag: tool theft

Transit Van Insurance: The Ford Theft Warning Drivers Need

Posted on by News Desk

Introduction

Transit van insurance…

A van was stolen every 52 minutes in the UK in 2025.

That is not just a police statistic.

It is a warning for tradespeople, couriers, and small business owners.

The Ford Transit 350 has now been named the UK’s most stolen van model.

Across 2024 and 2025, thieves stole more than 1,300 of them.

However, this story is not only about Ford.

It is about risk.

About lost tools.

It is about missed work.

And, therefore, it is about Transit Van Insurance.

If you rely on your van every day, theft risk can affect more than your schedule.

It can affect your premium, your cover, and your ability to work.

Ford Transit 350 Named UK’s Most Stolen Van

The Ford Transit 350 is one of Britain’s most familiar working vans.

Builders use it.

Electricians use it.

Plumbers use it.

Couriers use it.

Small business owners use it because it is practical, spacious, and dependable.

But that popularity creates a problem.

Thieves often target vehicles they know well.

They understand the demand.

They understand the parts market.

And, unfortunately, they understand that many working vans carry valuable equipment.

Here’s where it gets uncomfortable.

The Ford Transit 350 recorded more than 1,300 thefts across 2024 and 2025.

That made it the UK’s most stolen van model.

For anyone comparing Cheap Transit Van Insurance UK, this matters.

Insurers look closely at risk.

They may consider the make, model, postcode, parking arrangements, claims history, and security features.

Therefore, a high-theft model can influence how insurers view your application.

That does not mean every Ford Transit driver will pay more.

However, it does mean drivers should take theft risk seriously.

Because very cheap transit van insurance can look attractive until the cover feels too thin.

Why Ford Models Dominate The Van Theft Tables

Ford models dominate partly because they dominate British roads.

That sounds simple.

Yet it explains a lot.

The more common a van becomes, the more often criminals see it.

The more often they see it, the more opportunities they have.

Also, popular vans can create stronger demand for spare parts.

That matters.

A stolen van may not always stay in one piece.

It may be stripped.

It may be moved quickly.

Or it may be used for another crime.

So, although Ford vans remain popular for good reasons, their success can make them more visible targets.

This is why van owners should think beyond the monthly premium.

The real question is not only:

“Can I find the Cheapest van insurance?”

The better question is:

“Does this policy protect my real working life?”

Because a van used for business carries different risks from a van used occasionally.

A self-employed plasterer may store tools overnight.

Couriers may cover high mileage across busy cities.

A builder may park outside different sites each week.

Same van.

Different risk.

Different insurance needs.

That is why accurate declarations matter.

Business use matters.

Overnight parking matters.

Security matters.

Tool cover matters.

And, importantly, policy wording matters.

If you want a wider context, this guide explains why proper vehicle compliance is crucial for road safety.

Transit Van Insurance: Why Tradespeople Should Pay Close Attention

For tradespeople, a stolen van can cause instant disruption.

Not inconvenient.

Disruption.

Your van may carry the tools that earn your income.

It may hold materials for tomorrow’s job.

It may contain ladders, drills, testing equipment, stock, or customer paperwork.

So, when thieves take the van, they may also take your working week.

And that is the real sting.

A weak policy can make the damage worse.

Some drivers assume comprehensive Van Insurance covers everything connected to the van.

However, that is not always true.

Tools may need separate cover.

Courier work may need specialist cover.

Modifications may need declaring.

And business use must match how you actually use the vehicle.

The cheapest van insurance is not always the lowest price. It is the right cover at the best value.

That is why tradespeople need to compare carefully.

Yes, price matters.

However, protection matters too.

Because one theft can cost far more than the small savings from choosing the wrong policy.

Van Theft Fell By 16%, But The Risk Has Not Gone Away For Trans Van Insurance

At first glance, the wider figures look encouraging.

Van theft fell by 16% during the same period.

That sounds positive.

And it is.

However, lower overall theft does not mean low risk for everyone.

Certain vans remain attractive to thieves.

High-demand commercial models still carry obvious appeal.

Especially when they belong to tradespeople.

When they carry tools.

And when they sit outside homes overnight.

This is the point many drivers miss.

A national fall in theft does not protect your van outside your house.

Your model matters.

Postcode matters.

Your security matters.

Parking routine matters.

And, consequently, your Transit Van Insurance still needs to reflect your real risk.

For some drivers, telematics devices can help save money on van insurance.

However, technology works best alongside common sense.

Use better locks.

Remove tools where possible.

Park carefully.

Check your policy.

And never assume that “cheap” automatically means “good value”.

Why White Vans Are Most At Risk

White vans make up a huge share of the UK van market.

So, naturally, many stolen vans are white.

However, the figures go further than that.

White vans reportedly account for 73% of thefts.

That suggests thieves may target them beyond their market share.

Here’s why that matters.

A white van often looks like a working vehicle.

It may carry tools.

May belong to a tradesperson.

It may park in predictable places overnight.

And, crucially, it may blend into traffic after a theft.

That makes it attractive.

Not because it looks expensive.

But because it looks useful.

Therefore, if you drive a white van, you should not panic.

However, you should pay attention.

Better locks, safer parking, trackers, and tool removal can all reduce risk.

They may also help when comparing Cheap Van Insurance UK.

Because insurers like lower risk.

And lower risk can sometimes support better value.

For more details, this guide explains what counts as a modification for van insurance, especially if you add locks, racking, or security upgrades.

Does Van Colour Affect Transit Van Insurance?

Van colour alone usually does not decide your premium.

However, the bigger risk picture can matter.

Insurers may look at theft trends, claims data, model type, postcode, security, and overnight parking.

So, colour may sit in the background.

It is not the whole story.

But it may still form part of the pattern.

That is why drivers should focus on what they can control.

For example:

  • Check your policy details, including:
  • Business use.
  • Tool cover.
  • Overnight parking.
  • More security can also make your van harder to steal.

This is where Van Insurance becomes practical.

Not theoretical.

You are not just buying a document.

You are protecting your work, income, and routine.

And, consequently, Very cheap van insurance only makes sense when the cover still fits your life.

How Theft Risk Can Affect Your Transit Van Insurance

Van theft can affect insurance in several ways.

First, insurers may price certain models more carefully.

Second, they may ask where you keep the van overnight.

Third, they may consider whether you use it for business.

And finally, they may look at previous claims in your area.

That does not mean you cannot find the Cheapest van insurance.

It simply means you need to compare properly.

Because a low price can hide a high excess.

Or it may exclude the cover you assumed came as standard.

Now, this is important.

A builder needs different protection from a weekend van user.

Couriers need different cover from a decorator.

A van carrying tools overnight needs different attention from an empty van parked in a locked garage.

Same word: van.

Different risk.

Different policy.

So, before choosing Cheap Van Insurance, check the small print.

Look for cover that matches your real use.

Also, avoid guessing on your application.

Because incorrect details can cause problems later.

For wider savings ideas, read these 10 simple hacks to lower your van insurance.

What UK Van Owners Should Do Next

The message is simple.

Van theft has fallen overall.

However, popular working vans remain clear targets.

So, therefore, drivers need a sharper plan.

Start with security.

Then check your policy.

After that, compare quotes properly.

Do not only chase the lowest headline price.

Instead, look for strong value.

That means the right cover at the best possible price.

This matters even more for tradespeople.

Because one stolen van can damage more than your transport.

It can hit your diary, your tools, your cash flow, and your customer relationships.

So, yes, look for Cheap Van Insurance UK.

But do it carefully.

And make sure your policy matches the way you actually earn your living.

Conclusion

The Ford Transit 350 theft figures should make UK van owners stop and think.

Although van theft fell by 16%, high-demand commercial vehicles remain vulnerable.

Therefore, if you rely on your van for work, tools, deliveries, or daily business, now is the time to review your security.

Check your policy wording, and compare Van Insurance carefully so you can find Cheap Van Insurance without leaving dangerous gaps in your cover.

For similar guides, read

When Do You Need Specialist Van Insurance?,

Are You Driving A Car Or A Van?, and

Can I Get Van Insurance As A New Driver?.

The Truth About Van Insurance Dangers Of Van Contents

Posted on by News Desk

Introduction

The dangers of van contents.

A van exploded inside a crowded underground shopping centre car park after its roof struck a low concrete beam.

Although the blast was brief, the consequences were life-changing, forcing every UK van driver to confront a difficult truth:

The contents you carry can be far more dangerous than you think.

Here’s what this article covers:

  • The hidden dangers inside everyday van contents.
  • Why a simple height misjudgement can trigger disaster.
  • How cargo can invalidate Van Insurance.
  • Why Cheap Van Insurance still depends on safe loading.
  • The risks tradespeople face with tools, chemicals, and pressurised items.
  • How to avoid costly mistakes and secure the Cheapest van insurance possible.

Dangers Of Van Contents: When Van Contents Turn Deadly

The van explosion in the car park wasn’t a freak accident.

It was the predictable result of ordinary cargo meeting extraordinary force.

And here’s the twist.

Many UK drivers routinely carry items that can behave the same way under pressure.

Bold truth: Tools, batteries, gas canisters, and solvents can turn a minor collision into a catastrophe.

Think a low ceiling is harmless?

Think again.

When the van hit the overhead concrete beam, the contents shifted, compressed, and sparked.

That chain reaction sent the driver to hospital.

And yet, thousands of vans on British roads are loaded in ways that pose the same risk.

Remember the dangers of van contents.

Now, let’s dig deeper.

Why Height Misjudgement Creates Explosive Conditions

Most drivers know their van’s length.

But not its height.

That’s where trouble begins.

Because a single miscalculation can slam roof-mounted gear or stacked contents against a rigid surface.

Then things escalate quickly.

Very quickly.

Here’s the worrying part.

Compressed gas cylinders, fuel containers, lithium batteries, metal tools, and loose cargo behave unpredictably during sudden impact.

And when they do?

You’re not just risking damage.

You’re risking everything—your safety, your livelihood, and your Van Insurance.

So, where does insurance come into this?

Let’s keep going.

The Link Between Unsafe Contents and Invalidated Van Insurance

Insurers assess risk, not luck.

And badly loaded vans represent serious risk.

That’s why unsafe contents can void a policy in seconds.

Even with Cheap Van Insurance, insurers expect drivers to follow safe loading rules.

Miss the rules, and the consequences are brutal. So the dangers of van contents!

For example.

If your van is technically a car-derived vehicle but loaded like a commercial unit, insurers may treat the damage differently.

This is why every UK driver should confirm their vehicle class using guides such as
Are You Driving a Car or a Van?

Because incorrect categorisation can invalidate claims instantly.

Let’s keep building the picture.

When Everyday Items Become High-Risk Cargo – Dangers Of Van Contents

Some dangers are obvious.

Others hide in plain sight.

Here’s where most drivers slip up.

They carry battery packs for tools.

Store paints, adhesives, and fuel mixes.

Leave metal tools loose, believing a gentle drive keeps them still.

But the moment something shifts, everything changes.

Even a pothole can produce a force strong enough to activate a tool trigger or damage a volatile container.

Now think back to the van explosion.

The impact didn’t need to be severe.

It only needed the right conditions.

And those conditions exist in many UK work vans every single day.

So what does this mean for Cheap Van Insurance UK?

Let’s break it down.

Unsafe Loads Drive Premiums Higher

Insurers know the data.

Vans with improperly secured cargo suffer more collisions, more severe damage, and more fire-related claims.

Consequently, premiums increase.

And although drivers search for the Cheapest van insurance, insurers price risk with precision.

If your van appears high-risk due to its contents, your premiums rise.

But here’s the good news.

With proper load safety, clear declarations, and accurate policy details, drivers can still access
the lowest-priced cover, especially through comparison-first services like Cheap Van Insurance UK.

So, where do we go from here?

Let’s move into the second half and focus on prevention.

How Safe Storage Prevents Disaster

Safe storage transforms a risky van into a controlled environment.

And because every load behaves differently, you need deliberate choices, not guesswork.

So you secure heavy tools before they shift.

Then you separate chemicals before fumes interact.

After that, you strap down loose items before one pothole turns them into projectiles.

Consequently, each choice reduces risk.

Additionally, balanced load distribution strengthens stability and braking response.

Even small adjustments improve safety and strengthen your Cheap Van Insurance position.

So the message stays simple.

Smart storage prevents chaos.

Dangers Of Van Contents – Why Compliance Protects Your Van Insurance

Compliance keeps your premiums under control.

And because insurers analyse behaviour, they reward drivers who follow clear rules.

So you check height limits before entering car parks.

Then you follow load-weight guidance to avoid dangerous handling.

Furthermore, you record any hazardous materials before travelling.

Each step increases trust with insurers.

For deeper guidance, you can use
Why Proper Vehicle Compliance Is Crucial for Road Safety.

Compliance strengthens safety.

Safety strengthens your insurance position.

Insurance confidence lowers your long-term costs.

How Telematics Helps You Avoid High-Risk Loading

Telematics gives you real-time information about your driving patterns.

Because every harsh brake reveals instability, telematics warns you instantly.

So you adjust your load before it becomes dangerous.

Then you adapt your driving before insurers flag risky habits.

Additionally, telematics data proves your reliability to insurers.

Reliable behaviour always reduces premiums.

For more insight, see
How Telematics Devices Can Save You Money On Van Insurance.

With the right monitoring, your van becomes safer, calmer, and cheaper to insure.

Conclusion 

Van contents influence risk, premiums, and financial protection.

And because every driver carries different tools and materials, safe choices matter more than ever –

especially when you rely on Cheap Van Insurance for long-term affordability and security.

For even more insights, you can explore:

10 Simple Hacks To Lower Van Insurance And Save Big

When Do You Need Specialist Van Insurance? Find Out Now

Tradespeople Fight Back: The Shocking Truth About Tool Theft

Posted on by News Desk

Introduction

Tool theft is crippling UK tradespeople.

For electricians, plumbers, and builders, a van serves as much more than just a vehicle.

In fact, it functions as their mobile workshop, office, and primary source of income.

Yet, criminals treat them like easy targets.

Every break-in costs thousands. Every stolen tool forces another tradesperson out of work.

Here’s the problem—many van owners no longer feel safe leaving their vehicles unattended.

As a result, they are constantly worried about potential break-ins.

Some refuse jobs unless they can keep their van in sight.

Others risk parking fines because a ticket is better than losing an entire toolkit.

Enough is enough.

In response to rising thefts, tradespeople have brought their fight to Parliament Square.

By doing so, they are demanding harsher penalties for thieves.

Their message? Protect our tools. Protect our jobs.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Tool theft is out of control—one van break-in happens every 12 minutes.
  • Tradespeople are struggling—without tools, they can’t work or earn a living.
  • The law is failing them—most thieves face little to no punishment.
  • A protest is pushing for change—van owners are demanding stronger sentences.
  • New legislation could help—but will MPs finally listen?

Let’s break it down.

The Scale Of The Tool Theft Crisis On Tradespeople

This isn’t just bad luck.

It’s an epidemic.

In 2023 alone, thieves targeted 44,000 vans, stealing tools and causing financial devastation—a 5% rise compared to the previous year.

To put that into perspective, a van gets broken into every 12 minutes, leaving countless tradespeople struggling to recover.

And here’s the kicker—many tradespeople don’t even bother reporting it because they know nothing will happen.

Why Do Thieves Target Vans?

Because they know they can get away with it.

Here’s why:

  • Tools are worth thousands—most van setups cost £10,000+.
  • Reselling is easy—stolen tools show up at car boot sales with no trace.
  • Security is weak—many vans rely on basic locks that criminals bypass in seconds.
  • Police focus on other crimes—officers prioritise violent offences over tool theft.

See the issue?

Taking advantage of every loophole, thieves continue to exploit the system.

As a result, tradespeople are the ones who suffer the most.

“If they steal our tools, they steal our jobs.”

Once the tools disappear, getting back on your feet isn’t easy.

Why The Current Laws Are Failing Tradespeople

Right now, criminals aren’t scared of getting caught.

As a result, tool theft continues to rise unchecked.

Why would they be?

The legal system treats tool theft as a minor crime.

Even if police arrest a thief, the punishment is embarrassingly weak:

  • Fines are small—many thieves walk away with a slap on the wrist.
  • Convictions are rare—most cases never even make it to trial.
  • Stolen tools stay lost—without a paper trail, police can’t return them to owners.
  • Victims suffer the most—they lose their tools, their income, and sometimes their businesses.

Sound fair?

Tradespeople don’t think so.

That’s why they’re fighting back.

The Real Impact On Tradespeople

Losing a van full of tools isn’t just frustrating;

more importantly, it creates both a financial crisis and a mental burden that can be overwhelming.

Let’s talk about Jason, a gas engineer.

He knows this struggle all too well.

  • Thieves broke into his first van, stealing £8,500 worth of tools.
  • He replaced everything and bought a new van, hoping it would be safer.
  • It wasn’t—criminals struck again.

Now, he refuses jobs unless he can see his van at all times.

“If I can’t see my van, I refuse the job.”

He’s not alone.

  • Some risk parking tickets just to keep their van in sight.
  • Others turn down work if they can’t park nearby.
  • Many struggle with anxiety, constantly worrying about another break-in.

This can’t continue.

Tradespeople shouldn’t have to choose between working and protecting their livelihoods.

But with weak laws, criminals keep winning.

The Protest Outside Parliament By Tradespeople

Enough was enough.

In response, tradespeople brought their fight to the Government.

As a result, they organised a slow-drive protest through Parliament Square.

The message was clear: tool theft destroys lives.

Vans covered in bold slogans sent a powerful statement:

  • “Every tool stolen is a job lost.”
  • “Hands off our van.”

Drivers blared their horns, demanding action.

Even protesters dressed as a spanner and a tube of caulk joined in, waving at passing motorists.

But let’s be clear—this wasn’t about causing chaos.

Tradespeople weren’t blocking roads or stopping work. They were fighting for their future.

And their demand was simple: harsher punishments for thieves.

So, did the Government listen?

That’s the big question.

The Push For Stronger Laws

Tradespeople aren’t giving up anytime soon.

They fully understand that without stronger laws, tool theft will only escalate.

As a result, more tradespeople will continue to suffer.

Instead, the problem will only get worse, affecting more tradespeople every day.

Over time, more tradespeople will be affected, facing the loss of their tools and income.

As a consequence, many will struggle to continue working.

Right now, MPs are under pressure to act.A New Law Could Change Everything

In December, Labour MP Amanda Martin introduced the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill.

This bill would:

  • Increase sentences for tool thieves.
  • Classify tool theft as a higher-priority crime.
  • Recognise stolen tools as “significant additional harm” in court.

If passed, criminals will face real consequences.

But here’s the problem—laws take time.

Meanwhile, thousands of tradespeople remain at risk every single day.

So, what can van owners do right now?

How Tradespeople Can Protect Themselves

Until the law catches up, tradespeople need to take action.

Here’s what can help:

1. Upgrade Van Security

  • Invest in high-quality locks – Factory locks aren’t enough.
  • Install a van alarm – A loud siren can scare thieves away.
  • Use deadlocks – These prevent doors from being forced open.
  • Add a tool safe – Keep tools locked in a separate metal compartment.

2. Choose Parking Spots Wisely

  • Park in well-lit areas – Thieves prefer dark, hidden spots.
  • Avoid high-risk locations – Some areas report more van thefts than others.
  • Face doors against a wall – This prevents thieves from prying them open.

3. Mark and Track Your Tools

  • Engrave your business name – Marked tools are harder to resell.
  • Use GPS tracking – Devices like Tile and Apple AirTags can help locate stolen tools.
  • Register serial numbers – Some police units check stolen tool databases.

4. Get the Right Van Insurance

Even the best security isn’t foolproof.

That’s why having the right insurance matters.

Not all van insurance policies cover tool theft, so tradespeople must check the details.

For those looking for comprehensive cover, this guide explains what to look for.

The Fight Isn’t Over

The Parliament protest delivered a powerful message—tradespeople can no longer be overlooked.

As a result, they are demanding immediate action.

Without a doubt, they are demanding action and refuse to back down.

However, the real challenge remains: Will the Government finally step up and take action?

As tool theft continues to rise, implementing stronger penalties has become more important than ever.

Therefore, stricter laws are long overdue.

Until then, van owners must stay vigilant.

Because at the end of the day, protecting tools means protecting livelihoods.

Related Articles:

For more ways to protect your van and tools, check out:

!

Van Drivers Hit By Soaring Theft Costs

Posted on by News Desk

Instead, they drag their feet, forcing you to wait for a payout.The Alarming Numbers You Need to Know

To begin with, a new report reveals that theft from vans is draining a staggering £264 million every single year.

Even worse, a study commissioned by van-insurance company Honcho discovered that each van break-in costs tradespeople an average of £5,584.

As if that weren’t alarming enough, thieves break into a van somewhere in the UK every 23 minutes.

Some Insurers Respond Fast — Others Don’t

So what does this really mean for you?

For starters, while some insurers act quickly — often providing 24-hour replacement services for stolen tools — so van drivers and tradespeople can return to work almost immediately, others simply don’t.

Instead, they drag their feet, which means you’re left waiting for a payout.

Consequently, as the delays mount, you’re forced to watch valuable jobs — and crucial income — slip away.

The True Cost Of Delays

Unfortunately, the impact doesn’t stop there.

On average, these delays can put a tradesperson out of work for roughly an entire month.

Worse still, if you’re a sparky or a plumber and thieves hit your van, you could lose nearly two months’ wages just replacing the stolen tools.

Clearly, the financial hit can be devastating.

Shocking Gaps In Cover

But here’s the real shocker…

Despite the risks, 89% of van drivers still skip full cover for goods stolen from their vehicles.

In addition, 84% go without a courtesy van in their policy, leaving them stranded when theft strikes.

What You Can Do Right Now

So what should you do now?

First of all, it’s essential to strengthen your van’s in-vehicle security.

Therefore, consider installing lockable storage boxes and reinforced locks on every entry point.

Moreover, if your existing policy doesn’t include these crucial extras, it’s definitely time to shop around.

After all, choosing a comprehensive new van-insurance policy could save you weeks of downtime — and protect you from an even bigger financial loss.

Why Haven’t Van Owners Been Told About The “Peel and Steal”?

Posted on by News Desk

Van criminals are roaming the streets looking for YOUR parked van and they have one simple magic move that instantly works.

It’s called the “peel and steal,” which one expert described as like “peeling the top from a can of sardines.”

These van thieves are not smart and they don’t have expertise…but when breaking into a van is as simple as opening a tin of fish, then it’s no wonder we are right in the middle of…

The biggest van crime spree in the history of the world.

That’s right. At no other point in history has van crime been so easy for criminals. Even complete idiots with no previous criminal education or experience…even they are “peeling and stealing” their way to the top.

Thousands of pounds worth of tools are swiped in seconds, and then gone. Without warning and without any clue.

“I’m baffled,” Police officers are known for saying when they eventually turn up to the crime scene.

“What should I do now?” you ask.

“My only advice would be to visit Cheap Van Insurance,” the Police officer would offer, as a way to protect yourself in the future.

“Yes…I’m beginning to wish I had gone to Cheap Van Insurance before this whole mess occurred,” you might reply.

“Everybody says that…” the police officer says before beginning to walk away…

“Oh, and just one more thing…” he would say as leaving your house

“Where were you the night this happened…?”

I think we can all agree the only way for every single van owner in the UK to protect themselves against the “peel and steal” is to take 3 minutes of your time and fill in the form here at Cheap Van Insurance.

Even if it wasn’t recommended by the law and talked about by those in authority, it would still be the place to be.

Do you know why? Cheap van insurance quotes…that is why.

Protection against the peel and steal is important, but the cheapest van insurance quotes in the UK is even more enjoyable.

Why pay more, year after year, when you could be paying less. Stick your fingers up to your van insurance company and never look back.

“I’m going to CVI,” you say, and with those words you are on the road to saving a fortune.

So take action right now and join the thousands of van owners who insure their van and tools at prices many would not believe…if they didn’t see the quotes right there in front of them.

“It’s just like magic,” said one van owner.

Tool Theft Again! But…Reunited is the Man With Van

Posted on by News Desk

Cheap Van Insurance enthusiasts will no doubt remember the numerous blog posts where I talk about tool theft. It’s headline news.

Unfortunately, most of the time those sneaky but clever van thieves are in your van, and then, with a crafty plan they are away with your tools…never to be seen again.

This usually means the tradesperson is left in a bit of a situation, because the simple fact of the matter is that most people out there do not include tool theft protection in their van insurance policy.

Maybe you think it’s too expensive? Think again is my advice, because all you have to do is compare van insurance, right here of course, and then you get the really cheap deals. Include some tool theft cover and you really won’t be paying too much.

Despite the fact that van tool theft is typically a crime that usually leaves police officers baffled, some of these incidents do have a good ending.

Take the recent story of Ryan Harman-Taylor who hails from the town of Weston-Super-Mare. He was having a great day due to the fact his second child had just been born, but then he returned home to find his van broken into and the tools vanished.

Yes, it was those cunning yet methodical van criminals I am always talking about, who are waiting to pounce no matter where you are in the country. Sometimes they drive all around the country, armed with an A-Z street book and circling the points of interest.

On this particular day they were in Weston-Super-Mare, and it didn’t take them long to find their target.

So they were in and out like a flash, and then…gone…back to base to offload the loot before hitting the streets again to get more loot.

Back to the story and it was £19,000 worth of tools that were stolen from that van, that day, and it left Ryan Harman-Taylor without any way to do his work as a carpenter.

In situations like this most tradespeople have to admit defeat and get directions to the local job centre, but in this story there was a twist.

For once the Police actually got their act together and apprehended the tool thieves. These particular thieves had been doing a lot of activity, to the point where Avon and Somerset Police were actively patrolling the roads looking for suspicious individuals.

It didn’t take them long to find the culprits, and after searching their property they found thousands of pounds worth of stolen tools, including the £19,000 worth of tools we have been talking about in the story.

So, the man with van is reunited with his power tools, and for once those criminals didn’t get away with it, although it wouldn’t surprise me if they avoid jail and are on the streets again in no time at all…the captured, once again the hunters.

This all just highlights the importance of making sure you have insurance for your tools. Don’t leave it a minute longer…fill in the 3 minute form now and be rewarded with 40 quotes from van insurance companies and brokers.

£5000 Worth of Tools Stolen…”NOT COVERED”

Posted on by News Desk

Despite the fact that I warn van drivers on a regular basis about making sure they are insured for tool theft, it seems that many are not listening.

Take the story of a builder in Stoke, who recently had a staggering £5000 worth of power tools nicked from his van. Unfortunately, when he phoned his van insurance company to ask for a cheque they told him that was…”NOT COVERED.”

He was shocked at the revelation, and even a bit annoyed, but it didn’t change the fact they were not paying out and there was nothing he could do.

“I am 100 percent I locked the van,” said Scott Holford who had his tools stolen, “I remember the lights flashing and I could hear the mechanism lock.”

As I’ve reported about before, these van criminals don’t care if your van is locked or not, they have the means to get in to almost any van with ease. How? It’s those magic keys we have been hearing about, that can be purchased on the internet for £20 and give thieves a license to steal from every van owner in the UK.

The £5000 worth of tools had taken Scott 10 years to collect, but now, he has to start again from scratch. His staff and customers are also going to be affected.

“The customer I’m working for now doesn’t have a kitchen at the moment and the apprentice won’t be able to have a pay cheque this week.”

It just goes to show how van crime has consequences beyond the owners themselves, and that is why I recommend every tradesperson in the UK to make sure they have the correct insurance.

In other words, check you are completely covered for tool theft. Don’t leave it to chance, because as we keep hearing time and time again…there is a thief at a street near you waiting to strike and rob you of everything in your van.

Another way to protect yourself is to never leave any tools in your van overnight. Many tradespeople find they don’t have the time to do this after a long day which is fair enough, but if you can do it then by all means do.

One complaint from builders and other tradespeople is that van insurance is expensive enough right now, and that adding additional tool cover is just too much for their wallet.

I agree some of the prices being quoted are silly at the moment but you can make things significantly less expensive by using a van insurance comparison website.

Many van drivers are saving a few hundred quid, and then they can use that extra cash to get cover for their tools.

Step 1

Complete your quick and easy quote

Step 2

Reveal your van insurance policies

Step 3

Pick your favourite and get instant cover

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